Day School: The Invention of Photography

Ref: C2226936

In 1839 and 1841, two different photographic processes were revealed to the public: the daguerreotype and the calotype. The new type of images thus produced challenged the art world's old habits. For example, what was to become of portrait painters when photographers could do a much better job in a fraction of the time and money? If photography could deliver greater accuracy in its rendition of the world, what of painting? We will first describe the invention of several photographic processes. We will then consider how painters used photographs and how they felt challenged by this new type of images. Finally, we will see how photographs encouraged painters to practice painting differently, helping them devise pictorial innovations.

Additional information about this course

Tea and coffee available from 10:30am. Course runs from 11:00am - 3.30pm inclusive of a 1.5 hour lunch break.

Course aim

In this thought-provoking lecture we will comes back on the invention of photography in 1839 and its first 50 years of existence. We will also consider how this new type of images contributed to the development of modern art.

Do I need any particular skills or experience?

No skills or experience needed

This course is suitable for beginners and improvers

By the end of the course I should be able to:

Describe how photography was invented

Describe ways in which painters used photographic images

Discuss the impact the invention of photography had on modern painting

How will I be taught?

The WEA tutor will use a range of different teaching and learning methods and encourage you and the group to be actively involved in your learning

What kind of feedback can I expect?

A range of informal activities will be used by the tutor to see what you are learning which may include quizzes, question and answer, small projects and discussion

As a registered charity, and to meet our funders’ requirements, we need to check a few things with you before you book. Please could we ask that you check the list below to ensure you meet our basic criteria:

You are paying the standard fee (with a credit or debit card) or you are on any of the qualifying benefits

You have a valid email address so that you can receive confirmation of your booking